Avian influenza subtype A(HxNy) normally spreads in birds but can also infect humans. Human infections are primarily acquired through direct contact with infected poultry or contaminated environments. While avian influenza viruses do not currently transmit easily from person to person, the ongoing circulation of these viruses in poultry is concerning, as these viruses can result in mild to severe illness and death, and also have the potential to mutate to become more contagious.

Member States in the WHO’s Western Pacific Region (WPR) communicate and notify the World Health Organization of any human cases of A(HxNy) through the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005) mechanism. WHO’s Western Pacific Regional Office therefore monitors human cases of avian influenza on an ongoing basis and produces a weekly summary report of the situation in the region.